The Pilot
AeroVenture Ballooning pilot and owner David Mitchell is one of Indiana's most experienced professional balloonists, with 15 years of piloting experience and over 25 years of involvement in hot air ballooning. David has piloted balloons in 8 different states, and has flown over major cities including Indianapolis, Louisville, Cincinnati, and Albuquerque. He has worked with many industry leaders on high-profile marketing campaigns and has the experience and knowledge to provide clients and partners with very creative and successful experiences. He has flown nearly 50 different balloons, including several special shape balloons that require exceptional piloting skills. David has also provided flight instruction to many students who have gained both Private and Commercial balloon pilot ratings.
Outside of his career as a professional balloon pilot David has studied Aviation Maintenance, Business Administration, and Marketing at the collegiate level. He is also an experienced airplane pilot, and is always looking to gain new experiences in various forms of aviation.
The Team
The AeroVenture Ballooning ground support team is specially trained to be the best and most professional team in the ballooning industry. Made up of a pilot and 2 to 3 ground crew members, the AeroVenture team is excited to make your flight one of the most enjoyable experiences of a lifetime! AeroVenture Ballooning requires our pilots to hold Commercial Pilot Certificates and an Airman Medical Certificate, as well as routine flight reviews and attendance at ballooning safety seminars.
The Balloon
Our balloon is a Thunder and Colt AX-9, which stands nearly 70 feet tall and holds 90,000 cubic feet of hot air. As any aircraft, our balloon is inspected to Federal Aviation Administration standards, and maintained by professional balloon inspectors and repairmen. We take great care to ensure that our equipment is in perfect condition before every flight to provide our passengers with unparalleled safety.